What is Agonal Breathing?

The statement "not breathing normally" reflects the concept of agonal respirations. Agonal respirations happen when they are not breathing on their own. These are occasional reflexive contractions that may appear like a breathing attempt or gasp when looking at the mouth. This can occur in the first few minutes after the heart has stopped beating (and no pulse) and can be confused with breathing. However, there is no air exchange and the chest does not rise. Normal breathing means that there is observable chest rise and fall with each breath in a fairly regular pattern. Normal breathing for an adult would be anywhere from 12 to 20 breaths per minute. A person that is obviously breathing, even if less than 12 times a minute, simply needs to be monitored until EMS arrives. If a person is not breathing or appears to only take an occasional gasp, CPR needs to be started.

Here is a link to our training video that covers this area of assessment and rescue- Agonal respirations video

If you have any additional questions or need help from here please feel free to reach out to us for further support!